For a custom, high-design look, choose two different countertop surfaces for your kitchen. This look was once exclusively used by chefs and bakers who preferred a designated, cold marble countertop in one section for rolling dough and stainless steel for the rest of the kitchen counters for clean up ease.

For a bold effect, select a countertop in a lively color. While some of the top choices include yellows, oranges and lime green, the choice of white or black countertops can be as bold a color choice as yellow, depending on the kitchen.

Kitchen islands serve a number of purposes. In addition to being a visual anchor in the space, they also help increase the room’s functionality and efficiency. And according to a survey by the National Association of Home Builders more than 70% of buyers want an island in their kitchen, and of those, 50% consider it a must-have. Since it’s apparent that adding an island is a sound investment, we’ve gathered 60 of our favorite kitchen island ideas to use for inspiration.